In undertaking this work we have found that client value comes from how well audit teams combine strong NRM skills and experience with formal audit and assurance techniques. Our ability to apply NRM expertise to audit processes has provided both assurance and continual improvement to our clients and their auditees.

We have also found that audit can add significant value to existing monitoring and evaluation programs, by interpreting science-based results for wider audiences seeking confidence, such as central agencies and grant program administrators.

The ERSA approach builds from established industry requirements including:

Analysis by former ERSA Director Tim Kirby, presenting some of the results of the NSW Natural Resources Commission audit program, was published in an article on Nature Audit, in the NZ Chartered Accountants Journal.

Examples of our work

ERSA teams have worked on a number of audits, and follow-up audits of CMAs, for the NSW Natural Resources Commission. ERSA teams have also and provided advice to Commonwealth agencies on conducting audit and assessment of water management, carbon emissions and carbon farming programs. Examples of our NRM audit projects include: